Preventing Leaf Drop on Poinsettias

What is the problem?
A common problem that many people have with poinsettias is the lower leaves on the plant will die and drop off, which is caused by stress.

What is the damage?
The damage of leaf drop on a poinsettia is minimal, simply creating a sparse plant.  To a homeowner, poinsettia leaf drop could damage furniture or carpet, but it is unlikely.  It also leaves an untidy mess that must be cleaned up every few days.

What can you do?
Before leaving the garden center with your new poinsettia, make sure that it has protection if the temperature is below 50° F.  Ask for a plastic poinsettia sleeve or, at the very least, use a grocery bag to cover your plant from the store to your car.

Two of the most common stresses on a poinsettia in the home are related to temperature and watering.  Plants will lose leaves if they are exposed to temperatures below 50° F or above 80° F.  Poinsettias are tropical plants that are native in Mexico and South America, so warm temperatures and moderately humid climates are best.  Poinsettias also require medium to bright light, but never full sun.  Additionally, it is best to display away from an area near the front door so that a cold winter breeze cannot reach the poinsettia.  When the temperatures dip close to freezing, even a slight breeze from a door or window can stress the plant and cause it to start dropping leaves.

A second reason that poinsettias may stress and drop leaves is the effect of watering, or lack of watering.  Poinsettias need to be watered well, then allowed to drain, preferring moderately moist soil.  When the soil feels dry to the touch, add enough water to saturate.  Make sure any excess drips out of the drain holes, never allowing the plant to stand in water.  If the pot is decorated with a pot cover, remove the excess water from the pot cover when draining is complete.  Improper watering, leaving the plant dry for too long, or allowing the plant to sit in water, causes the plant to stress and therefore drop its leaves.

Have more questions related to poinsettias?  Talk to one of the many experts at Delhi Flower and Garden Center!  Delhi has 70 different varieties of poinsettias from which to choose along with 10 different sizes.  Can’t find the right color?  No problem!  We can paint poinsettias for you, matching your school, corporate, or sports team colors!